Search Plants
Try for Free
English
About
Key Facts
Distribution
How To Care
All Species
More Genus
Amaranths (Amaranthus)
Amaranths (Amaranthus) are a widely distributed and diverse group of flowering plants. Several species within this genus are important crops that have been cultivated by humans for millennia. The leaves, seeds, roots, and stems of various species are all eaten. Many amaranths are also cultivated ornamentally, as they are hardy, quick-growing, and produce large clusters or spikes of small but colorful flowers. Unfortunately, due to their hardiness and ability to colonize disturbed areas, several amaranths species have also become pesky invasives in places where they've been introduced.
Lifespan
Annual
Plant Type
Herb/Vine
Key Facts About Amaranths
Feedback
Attributes of Amaranths
Plant Height
1.8 m
Spread
1 m
Leaf type
Semi-evergreen
Ideal Temperature
20 - 35 ℃
Scientific Classification of Amaranths
Phylum
Vascular plants
Class
Dicotyledons
Order
Pinks, cacti, and allies
Family
Amaranth
Genus
Amaranths
Distribution of Amaranths
Feedback
Distribution Map of Amaranths
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Potentially invasive
Exotic
No species reported
How to Grow and Care for Amaranths
Feedback
The amaranths genus, vibrant and versatile, requires minimal yet specific care. Basic needs entail full, direct sunlight, well-drained soil, and moderate watering as they are drought tolerant. Key challenges include pests like aphids and diseases such as fungal infections. These plants also show sensitivity to frost. Seasonal considerations primarily involve increased watering in hot, dry periods, and frost protection in winter. Understanding these, gardeners can cultivate robust amaranths thriving across seasons.
How to Water Amaranths?
What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Amaranths?
How to Propagate Amaranths?
How to Plant Amaranths?
Exploring the Amaranths Plants
Feedback
8 most common species：
Purple amaranth
Purple amaranth (Amaranthus blitum) is an annual plant that often grows as a weed. It is not often cultivated, but some people around the world gather the leaves and stems to be eaten as boiled vegetables. It is particularly common in Greek and Lebanese kitchens.
Joseph's coat
Joseph's coat is cultivated around the world both for its ornamental value and as an edible vegetable. Its name is a comparison of the plant's bright foliage to the dream coat of biblical mythology. Joseph's coat leaves are eaten raw, steamed, or stir-fried in Asia and Africa.
Redroot amaranth
While the redroot amaranth is considered a weed in most areas, some parts are edible. Fresh leaves may be included in soups and stews, while the dried leaves can be utilized in tea or ground into flour for bread or used as a thickening agent. Seeds can also be eaten, but the stalks, roots, and older leaves contain toxic substances. Redroot amaranth is sometimes used as fodder for livestock - it is nutritious in small amounts but toxic if too much is fed over a span of several days.
Green amaranth
Green amaranth is an annual herb. In many countries, it is used as a boiled vegetable. The seeds can be eaten as a nutty snack. Green amaranth contains much protein with the essential amino acid, lysine, so it can be a option for vegetarians.
Red amaranth
Red amaranth (*Amaranthus cruentus*) is grown wild not only for its beauty but also as a grain. It is prized for its crimson feather-like flowering plumes. The seeds of red amaranth can be cooked, popped overheat, or ground into flour. Like many types of Amaranthus cruentus, the leaves make a good substitute for spinach. Archaeological evidence suggests Aztec civilizations were already cultivating these plants as much as 6000 years ago.
Love-lies-bleeding
The love-lies-bleeding is an annual plant that is grown as an ornamental and as a food source. It is notable for its long, hanging red or gold blossoms that resemble tassels or fox tails. The leaves and seeds are used to make flour and other foods. Traditionally, several parts of this plant were utilized as herbal medicine.
Spiny amaranth
Spiny amaranth (Amaranthus spinosus) is a plant species native to the lowland American tropics. However, spiny amaranth has spread invasively to tropical regions around the globe. This species is named for the sharp spines at each of its leaf nodes.
Palmer's amaranth
Palmer's amaranth (Amaranthus palmeri) grows very fast and is invasive in many countries. It is also toxic to some livestock, so it's often classified as a noxious weed. Palmer's amaranth can also be turned into green or yellow dye.
All Species of Amaranths
Purple amaranth
Purple amaranth
Purple amaranth (Amaranthus blitum) is an annual plant that often grows as a weed. It is not often cultivated, but some people around the world gather the leaves and stems to be eaten as boiled vegetables. It is particularly common in Greek and Lebanese kitchens.
Joseph's coat
Joseph's coat
Joseph's coat is cultivated around the world both for its ornamental value and as an edible vegetable. Its name is a comparison of the plant's bright foliage to the dream coat of biblical mythology. Joseph's coat leaves are eaten raw, steamed, or stir-fried in Asia and Africa.
Redroot amaranth
Redroot amaranth
While the redroot amaranth is considered a weed in most areas, some parts are edible. Fresh leaves may be included in soups and stews, while the dried leaves can be utilized in tea or ground into flour for bread or used as a thickening agent. Seeds can also be eaten, but the stalks, roots, and older leaves contain toxic substances. Redroot amaranth is sometimes used as fodder for livestock - it is nutritious in small amounts but toxic if too much is fed over a span of several days.
Green amaranth
Green amaranth
Green amaranth is an annual herb. In many countries, it is used as a boiled vegetable. The seeds can be eaten as a nutty snack. Green amaranth contains much protein with the essential amino acid, lysine, so it can be a option for vegetarians.
Red amaranth
Red amaranth
Red amaranth (*Amaranthus cruentus*) is grown wild not only for its beauty but also as a grain. It is prized for its crimson feather-like flowering plumes. The seeds of red amaranth can be cooked, popped overheat, or ground into flour. Like many types of Amaranthus cruentus, the leaves make a good substitute for spinach. Archaeological evidence suggests Aztec civilizations were already cultivating these plants as much as 6000 years ago.
Love-lies-bleeding
Love-lies-bleeding
The love-lies-bleeding is an annual plant that is grown as an ornamental and as a food source. It is notable for its long, hanging red or gold blossoms that resemble tassels or fox tails. The leaves and seeds are used to make flour and other foods. Traditionally, several parts of this plant were utilized as herbal medicine.
Spiny amaranth
Spiny amaranth
Spiny amaranth (Amaranthus spinosus) is a plant species native to the lowland American tropics. However, spiny amaranth has spread invasively to tropical regions around the globe. This species is named for the sharp spines at each of its leaf nodes.
Palmer's amaranth
Palmer's amaranth
Palmer's amaranth (Amaranthus palmeri) grows very fast and is invasive in many countries. It is also toxic to some livestock, so it's often classified as a noxious weed. Palmer's amaranth can also be turned into green or yellow dye.
Green amaranth
Green amaranth
Green amaranth (Amaranthus hybridus) is a tall flowering annual that can be found throughout the Americas and which has been introduced in Europe and Asia. It is adaptable to many soil types and is considered a weed in some places. Its seeds and young leaves are edible and considered quite nutritious.
Prince's feather
Prince's feather
Prince's feather (*Amaranthus hypochondriacus*) thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. Evidence of its cultivation in Central America dates back roughly 6000 years. A red food coloring can be derived from prince's feather, and it can also be planted in patios and walkways to add more color to your place.
Tumbleweed
Tumbleweed
Tumbleweed (Amaranthus albus) is a fast-growing annual plant species that is commonly found growing in fields, pastures and roadsides. During the winter, this plant's blossoms sometimes breaks off from the stem, dry out and are blown around in the wind. This is how it got its name, the tumbleweed.
Mat amaranth
Mat amaranth
Mat amaranth or Amaranthus blitoides is a common weed that was once used to make dyes and glue. Although it is said to be edible raw or cooked, mat amaranth can build up nitrates in its leaves if it is grown with inorganic fertilizers, consumption in large amounts may cause nitrate poisoning.
Large-fruit amaranth
Large-fruit amaranth
Large-fruit amaranth is a perennial plant with a short lifetime. It grows naturally in disturbed habitats, including rubbish tips, waste areas, and factories. When grown in nitrogen-rich soil, large-fruit amaranth can become toxic.
Tropical amaranth
Tropical amaranth
Tropical amaranth is an exotic, tropical plant, hence the common name. Tropical amaranth flowers throughout summer and autumn, producing delicate, tiny red flowers. It can be found growing in North, South, and Southeast America.
Powell's amaranth
Powell's amaranth
This is an erect annual herb growing to a maximum height near 2 m. It has leaves up to 9 cm long, those on the upper part of the plant lance-shaped and lower on the stem diamond or roughly oval in shape. The inflorescence holds several long, narrow clusters of both male and female flowers interspersed with spiny green bracts. The fruit is a smooth dehiscent capsule about 3 mm long containing shiny reddish black seeds.
Rough-fruit amaranth
Rough-fruit amaranth
Amaranthus tuberculatus, commonly known as roughfruit amaranth, rough-fruited water-hemp, or tall waterhemp, is a species of flowering plant. It is a summer annual broadleaf with a germination period that lasts several months. Tall waterhemp has been reported as a weed in 40 of 50 U.S. states.
Red amaranth 'Velvet Curtains'
Red amaranth 'Velvet Curtains'
Red amaranth 'Velvet Curtains' is a stunning shrub with erect dark crimson, long-lasting plumes and dark red foliage. It is a cultivar of the Red amaranth and named for its drooping curtains of velvety catkins. Gardeners like this cultivar for its long-lasting flower spikes and its ability to attract butterflies and hummingbirds.
Lady's riding whip 'Viridis'
Lady's riding whip 'Viridis'
Lady's riding whip 'Viridis' is named 'Viridis' or 'green,' because of its green flowers which contrast dramatically with the parent's red blossoms. The flowers have a dangling habit, growing in whip-like strands. These unusual flowers are popular in flower arrangements. This plant makes a good addition to borders, but can also be grown in containers.
Prince's-feather 'Green Thumb'
Prince's-feather 'Green Thumb'
Prince's-feather 'Green Thumb' is a cultivar of Prince's-feather that is easily identifiable by its unique spikes of green flowers surrounded by dark green foliage that makes up the bushy plant. Gardeners enjoy the plant for its unique appearance and because it does well as a cut flower.
Amaranth 'Oeschberg'
Amaranth 'Oeschberg'
Amaranth 'Oeschberg' (Amaranthus paniculatus 'Oeschberg') are a widely distributed and diverse group of flowering plants. Several species within this genus are important crops that have been cultivated by humans for millennia. The leaves, seeds, roots, and stems of various species are all eaten. Many amaranth 'Oeschberg' are also cultivated ornamentally, as they are hardy, quick-growing, and produce large clusters or spikes of small but colorful flowers. Unfortunately, due to their hardiness and ability to colonize disturbed areas, several amaranth 'Oeschberg' species have also become pesky invasives in places where they've been introduced.
Love-lies-bleeding 'Dreadlocks'
Love-lies-bleeding 'Dreadlocks'
The cerise flowers of the love-lies-bleeding 'Dreadlocks' are brighter and showier than the flowers of the parent Love-lies-bleeding plant. You just need one look at this cultivar when it is in flower to see the resemblance between the long draping flower tassels and the popular dreadlock hairstyle. Its dramatic appearance makes it a great asset to summer gardens.
Torrey's amaranthus
Torrey's amaranthus
Torrey's amaranthus is a robust annual herb with a bushy growth habit, often reaching up to a meter in height. Its leaves are lance-shaped with a green to reddish tint and are typically arranged spirally on the stems. The plant features dense, terminal spikes of small, greenish flowers that bloom from summer to fall. Torrey's amaranthus thrives in arid climates, adapting to scarce water conditions through its deep taproot system. The seeds are tiny but nutritious, and the plant's resilience allows it to contribute to its ecosystem even in harsh environments.
Fringed amaranth
Fringed amaranth
Fringed amaranth is a vibrant flowering plant characterized by its fringed or serrated green leaves and striking, dense flower spikes. The flowers, ranging from red to purple, create a visually appealing contrast against the foliage. Typically thriving in warm environments, fringed amaranth has an affinity for well-drained soil and can often be found gracing sunny garden spots or flourishing in the wild, where its colors can attract pollinators, contributing to the local ecosystem.
Greenstripe
Greenstripe
Greenstripe is characterized by its striking green to red leaves that are typically lance-shaped and often with wavy margins. This annual herb sprouts showy, dense spikes of small flowers, which add to its ornamental appeal. Adapting well to various environments, greenstripe flourishes in both gardens and wilder landscapes, tolerating a range of soil types while attracting pollinators with its vivid inflorescences.
More Popular Genus
Feedback
Dracaena
Dracaena are popular house plants that are easy to grow. They can tolerate low-light conditions and require little watering. Their leaves range from variegated to dark green. Their characteristic traits include woody stems that grow slowly but offer a striking appearance for small spaces such as apartments or offices.
Fig trees
Fig trees have been cultivated in many regions for their fruits, particularly the common fig, F. carica. Most of the species have edible fruits, although the common fig is the only one of commercial value. Fig trees are also important food sources for wildlife in the tropics, including monkeys, bats, and insects.
Brambles
Brambles are members of the rose family, and there are hundreds of different types to be found throughout the European countryside. They have been culturally significant for centuries; Christian folklore stories hold that when the devil was thrown from heaven, he landed on a bramble bush. Their vigorous growth habit can tangle into native plants and take over.
Maples
The popular tree family known as maples change the color of their leaves in the fall. Many cultural traditions encourage people to watch the colors change, such as momijigari in Japan. Maples popular options for bonsai art. Alternately, their sap is used to create maple syrup.
Prunus
Prunus is a genus of flowering fruit trees that includes almonds, cherries, plums, peaches, nectarines, and apricots. These are often known as "stone fruits" because their pits are large seeds or "stones." When prunus trees are damaged, they exhibit "gummosis," a condition in which the tree's gum (similar to sap) is secreted to the bark to help heal external wounds.
Nightshades
Nightshades is a large and diverse genus of plants, with more than 1500 different types worldwide. This genus incorporates both important staple food crops like tomato, potato, and eggplant, but also dangerous poisonous plants from the nightshade family. The name was coined by Pliny the Elder almost two thousand years ago.
Roses
Most species of roses are shrubs or climbing plants that have showy flowers and sharp thorns. They are commonly cultivated for cut flowers or as ornamental plants in gardens due to their attractive appearance, pleasant fragrance, and cultural significance in many countries. The rose hips (fruits) can also be used in jams and teas.
Oaks
Oaks are among the world's longest-lived trees, sometimes growing for over 1,000 years! The oldest known oak tree is in the southern United States and is over 1,500 years old. Oaks produce an exceedingly popular type of wood which is used to make different products, from furniture and flooring to wine barrels and even cosmetic creams.
Continue reading in our app - it's better
A database of 400000+ plants and unlimited guides at your fingertips...
Your Ultimate Guide to Plants
Identify grow and nurture the better way!
17,000 local species +400,000 global species studied
Nearly 5 years of research
80+ scholars in botany and gardening
Botanist in your pocket
Scan the QR code with your phone camera to download the app
About
Key Facts
Distribution
How To Care
All Species
More Genus
Amaranths
Amaranthus
Amaranths (Amaranthus) are a widely distributed and diverse group of flowering plants. Several species within this genus are important crops that have been cultivated by humans for millennia. The leaves, seeds, roots, and stems of various species are all eaten. Many amaranths are also cultivated ornamentally, as they are hardy, quick-growing, and produce large clusters or spikes of small but colorful flowers. Unfortunately, due to their hardiness and ability to colonize disturbed areas, several amaranths species have also become pesky invasives in places where they've been introduced.
Lifespan
Annual
Plant Type
Herb/Vine
Key Facts About Amaranths
Feedback
Attributes of Amaranths
Plant Height
1.8 m
Spread
1 m
Leaf type
Semi-evergreen
Ideal Temperature
20 - 35 ℃
Scientific Classification of Amaranths
Phylum
Vascular plants Class
Dicotyledons Order
Pinks, cacti, and allies Family
Amaranth Genus
Amaranths Distribution of Amaranths
Feedback
Distribution Map of Amaranths
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Potentially invasive
Exotic
No species reported
How to Grow and Care for Amaranths
Feedback
The amaranths genus, vibrant and versatile, requires minimal yet specific care. Basic needs entail full, direct sunlight, well-drained soil, and moderate watering as they are drought tolerant. Key challenges include pests like aphids and diseases such as fungal infections. These plants also show sensitivity to frost. Seasonal considerations primarily involve increased watering in hot, dry periods, and frost protection in winter. Understanding these, gardeners can cultivate robust amaranths thriving across seasons.
How to Water Amaranths?
What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Amaranths?
How to Propagate Amaranths?
How to Plant Amaranths?
Exploring the Amaranths Plants
Feedback
8 most common species：
Purple amaranth
Purple amaranth (Amaranthus blitum) is an annual plant that often grows as a weed. It is not often cultivated, but some people around the world gather the leaves and stems to be eaten as boiled vegetables. It is particularly common in Greek and Lebanese kitchens.
Joseph's coat
Joseph's coat is cultivated around the world both for its ornamental value and as an edible vegetable. Its name is a comparison of the plant's bright foliage to the dream coat of biblical mythology. Joseph's coat leaves are eaten raw, steamed, or stir-fried in Asia and Africa.
Redroot amaranth
While the redroot amaranth is considered a weed in most areas, some parts are edible. Fresh leaves may be included in soups and stews, while the dried leaves can be utilized in tea or ground into flour for bread or used as a thickening agent. Seeds can also be eaten, but the stalks, roots, and older leaves contain toxic substances. Redroot amaranth is sometimes used as fodder for livestock - it is nutritious in small amounts but toxic if too much is fed over a span of several days.
Green amaranth
Green amaranth is an annual herb. In many countries, it is used as a boiled vegetable. The seeds can be eaten as a nutty snack. Green amaranth contains much protein with the essential amino acid, lysine, so it can be a option for vegetarians.
Show More Species
All Species of Amaranths
Purple amaranth
Joseph's coat
Redroot amaranth
Green amaranth
Red amaranth
Love-lies-bleeding
Spiny amaranth
Palmer's amaranth
Green amaranth
Prince's feather
Tumbleweed
Mat amaranth
Large-fruit amaranth
Tropical amaranth
Powell's amaranth
Rough-fruit amaranth
Red amaranth 'Velvet Curtains'
Lady's riding whip 'Viridis'
Prince's-feather 'Green Thumb'
Amaranth 'Oeschberg'
Love-lies-bleeding 'Dreadlocks'
Torrey's amaranthus
Fringed amaranth
Greenstripe
More Popular Genus
Feedback
Dracaena
Dracaena are popular house plants that are easy to grow. They can tolerate low-light conditions and require little watering. Their leaves range from variegated to dark green. Their characteristic traits include woody stems that grow slowly but offer a striking appearance for small spaces such as apartments or offices.
Fig trees
Fig trees have been cultivated in many regions for their fruits, particularly the common fig, F. carica. Most of the species have edible fruits, although the common fig is the only one of commercial value. Fig trees are also important food sources for wildlife in the tropics, including monkeys, bats, and insects.
Brambles
Brambles are members of the rose family, and there are hundreds of different types to be found throughout the European countryside. They have been culturally significant for centuries; Christian folklore stories hold that when the devil was thrown from heaven, he landed on a bramble bush. Their vigorous growth habit can tangle into native plants and take over.
Maples
The popular tree family known as maples change the color of their leaves in the fall. Many cultural traditions encourage people to watch the colors change, such as momijigari in Japan. Maples popular options for bonsai art. Alternately, their sap is used to create maple syrup.
Prunus
Prunus is a genus of flowering fruit trees that includes almonds, cherries, plums, peaches, nectarines, and apricots. These are often known as "stone fruits" because their pits are large seeds or "stones." When prunus trees are damaged, they exhibit "gummosis," a condition in which the tree's gum (similar to sap) is secreted to the bark to help heal external wounds.
Nightshades
Nightshades is a large and diverse genus of plants, with more than 1500 different types worldwide. This genus incorporates both important staple food crops like tomato, potato, and eggplant, but also dangerous poisonous plants from the nightshade family. The name was coined by Pliny the Elder almost two thousand years ago.
Roses
Most species of roses are shrubs or climbing plants that have showy flowers and sharp thorns. They are commonly cultivated for cut flowers or as ornamental plants in gardens due to their attractive appearance, pleasant fragrance, and cultural significance in many countries. The rose hips (fruits) can also be used in jams and teas.
Oaks
Oaks are among the world's longest-lived trees, sometimes growing for over 1,000 years! The oldest known oak tree is in the southern United States and is over 1,500 years old. Oaks produce an exceedingly popular type of wood which is used to make different products, from furniture and flooring to wine barrels and even cosmetic creams.
Your Ultimate Guide to Plants
Identify grow and nurture the better way!
17,000 local species +400,000 global species studied
Nearly 5 years of research
80+ scholars in botany and gardening
Continue reading in our app - it's better
A database of 400000+ plants
unlimited guides at your fingertips...
unlimited guides at your fingertips...
